Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s decision to step aside after nearly four decades in Congress kicks off a wide-open contest to replace her at a time when her home city of San Francisco is roiled in

Saikat Chakrabarti, 39, a software engineer and co-founder of the progressive organization Justice Democrats and president of New Consensus, announced his run against Pelosi in February. He has had a successful behind-the-scenes political campaign career, as well as in software engineering. He is a Harvard University graduate.

The 85-year-old Democratic leader didn't say why she isn't running for reelection. It comes as one lawmaker recently announced his bid for her seat.

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s decision to step aside after nearly four decades in Congress has opened a wide race

Before first taking Congressional office in 1988, the then-47-year-old freshman and her hubby, venture capitalist Paul Pelosi, reported between $610,000 and $785,000 in stocks in their portfolio, according to a copy of her "hand delivered" 1987 financial disclosure form.

After nearly 40 years in politics, Nancy Pelosi, the first ever woman to serve as Speaker of the House, announced her impending retirement from Congress.

As Ms. Pelosi announced her retirement, she was celebrated for her long tenure in Washington. But back home, she was remembered for showing up at a terrifying moment when others turned away.